Some members of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) have endorsed Malawi vice president, Dr. Saulosi Chilima as the party’s torchbearer for the 2019 presidential elections.

Speaking at a press briefing in the capital Lilongwe on Thursday, a senior member of the Chilima movement, Patricia Kaliati said the veep has so far proved to be a potential leader.

The press conference was held barely a day after the party announced that it will hold its elective national convention in June this year.

Kaliati who is also DPP Director of Women, criticized some members of the party who are declaring that president Peter Mutharika will go unopposed at the party’s convention.

Speaking during a ground breaking ceremony for Lirangwe – Chingale road construction on Thursday, president Mutharika alleged that some ‘stupid’ party members want to file for a court injunction against the party’s convention.

Mutharika alleged that those who are behind the move have become fearful to face him at the convention.

He added that he is going to crush those that are against his bid for a re-election in the 2019 presidential polls.